last friday.
back on a plane
for the first time
since the end of january.
we haven’t gone
this long without
a trip in a very
long time.
and madeline made that
very obvious.
things started off great.
maddy was entertained
by cinderella on
her ipod
before the plane took off,
then crawled into
my arms for a
nap as we ascended.
we were both
asleep for a few minutes
when i heard the
flight attendant say,
“can i get you a drink?”
it woke me up.
worse?
it woke madeline up.
and that’s when shit
hit the fan.
for the next 40 minutes
or so,
madeline screamed and
cried and kicked
and scratched,
all to the horror
of those around me.
there was nothing
i could do to make
her feel better.
i tried the
glitter-covered princess-themed
pages and the
color wonder markers,
but she threw them
on the ground.
i tried yo gabba gabba,
cinderella, dumbo and snow white.
no.
i tried to show
her the photos
of the dogs in the
skymall magazine.
she tore the pages out.
i pointed out the
clouds that could
be seen out the window
and below the plane.
she didn’t care.
i even tried to
sing her a couple
of songs,
which was probably the
worst idea ever ’cause
i can’t carry a tune.
all she really wanted was
to sleep, and now that
she was awake, sleep
was impossible.
instead, she just went for
ear-splitting screaming.
so not awesome.
sometime during the
audiological torture,
with maddy under the seat
in front of me,
kicking away,
i turned to the people
within earshot and said.
“i’m so sorry. i’ll buy everyone within earshot a drink.”
i got a laugh from
the woman behind me,
but no one else responded.
they must have been
rendered deaf.
i told the flight attendant
the same thing.
she laughed and said,
“no. that’s not necessary.”
i told her,
“no. i’m completely serious. i feel terrible for the people.”
“you’re doing your best,”
she said.
that was nice.
i was doing my
best, but as all
parents know, there are
some moments during which
our children are inconsolable.
and no matter what
you try to do,
you’re just not going
to get your kid
to cooperate.
madeline eventually
morphed back in to
the child with whom
i usually travel,
and we enjoyed the
rest of the flight.
as per long-standing tradition,
liz’s
parents picked us
up from the airport,
and this time
they brought brooke with them.
i can’t tell you
how awesome it is
to have such
an amazing and understanding
set of in-laws.
saturday.
it was the day
that madeline’s mind
would officially be blown,
because that day,
we were going to
see yo gabba gabba live.
grandma broccoli and grandpa rodney
met us at
grandma candee and grandpa tom g.’s house
for a little
play time before heading out.
(grandpa tom l. was on a fishing trip so he couldn’t make it).
soon it was time
to head to the target center…
maddy fell asleep on
the way,
and remained sleeping
as i took her
our of her carseat
and carried her
through the skyway.
she didn’t wake up
until we were already
inside the place, and when
she did, she was
really, really confused.
i could just see
what she was thinking…
“where did all of these kids and adults come from? and why are they all holding yo gabba gabba toys? and why is that little kid dressed up like dj lance?”
i tried to explain
to her what
was going on,
but there was
simply no frame
of reference from
which she could draw.
we found our seats
and our dj lance glasses,
and grandpa rodney
saw local celeb,
“hey wally! where’s the beer?”
wally laughed and yelled back,
“i had no idea there would be so many parents here! i’ll be back later.”
and that made me laugh.
i envisioned all of
these kids here
without their parents.
holy shit would that have
been insane.
and then i realized just
how necessary that beer
would be for
many of the parents
to get through this event.
with maddy on
my lap,
i got to
experience a
moment of great joy…
the lights went down,
the theme music
started, and i could
feel maddy’s excitement…
she started bouncing
along to the
music, just as she
does when we’re watching
at home.
she looked left
and right, making
contact with all of
us, her eyes saying,
“am i really seeing what i’m seeing? did muno, foofa, toode, brobee, plex and dj lance just walk out of giant tv screen and into my real-life?”
i kinda cried.
there’s nothing like
seeing your
child’s eyes light up
when they see something
that truly amazes them.
the rest of the
show found maddy
jumping from lap to lap
while she watched
the magic happen.
and then
the balloons fell
from the sky…
and then there
was an intermission.
maddy and grandma candee
got a photo
with wally
after he
returned with beer
(rodney kinda felt obligated to buy a beer from him, even though he doesn’t drink).
maddy and every
other person in the
place played with the balloons
intermission ended
and we watched
the rest of the show…
when it was over,
we all agreed that
it was a ton
of fun.
(and that had nothing to do with the beer).
it was just great to
see madeline so happy.
that night maddy
spent the evening
with grandma broccoli and
grandpa rodney
while brooke and
i headed to
nate’s house
for a bit of his
amazing cooking.
we enjoyed some wine
with dinner, then some dessert,
and finally some music.
aj joined us for
a bit, but
couldn’t stay
as long as we had hoped.
sunday.
picked maddy up
from grandma and grandpa’s house
and went on
a short shopping trip.
bought a couple
of dresses for
my little lady
then we headed
to brooke’s parent’s house
for an afternoon of fun.
all of the grandparents
joined us
so they could
meet brooke’s family
and eat some
food that one
could only be imported
from wisconsin.
had one hell
of a good time
with everyone…
that night i took
brooke to a concert,
to see someone
whose music i’ve
enjoyed for over 13 years.
she actually enjoyed it.
monday.
went to get my
taxes done.
then spent the
afternoon playing
with madeline.
last night was dinner
at aj and sonja’s house.
alway great to
see them.
i’ll be using the rest
of this week
to get some work done
before we head
to paris on friday
to celebrate madeline’s birthday.
i’ll be sending
updates and photos
from the trip
as time allows.
finally…
i’ve been getting
a lot of e-mails
lately asking if folks
can send madeline
a birthday gift.
i am incredibly touched
and thankful for
your thoughtfulness,
but i ask that you
instead consider donating
so that we can
continue to help
families in similar situations.
any amount makes a huge difference.
so far we’ve sent
money to 36 families,
and we are currently
on target to send
financial assistance to
a new family each month.
(we’ll soon be sending out a press release with lots of information).
thank you…
150 Comments
I bet you were mortified on the plane. Kids are unpredictable, but so is life and the people around you hopefully just sucked it up and moved on.
It looks like though she had a lot of fun once on the ground!
So great to see you all having fun and lovely that your in-laws have welcomed Brooke into their family. Hope you have a fantastic time in Paris for Maddy’s birthday, I’m donating to the Foundation on her behalf. It’s lovely to see you both smiling so much.
I wish I was a toddler for Yo Gabba Gabba, that thing is way cooler than Barney.
Nothing like seeing your child light up !! Love the pics ! She is one beautiful girl.
The life you are creating for your beautiful little girl is so fabulous.
She’s just stunning!
my 2 yr-old would LOVE the Yo Gabba Gabba show. I hope they come to the LA area. have fun on all your adventures. Be safe.
Reading this makes me smile! So happy to see where life is taking you and I so need to smile cause my ass hurts from spin class!
WOW!! Looks like she had a blast!! I’m glad that you were able to enjoy the time at the concert! Safe wishes for safe travels soon. Is Brooke joining you two in Paris?
sounds almost as fun as your weekend with birdemic…almost….birdemic is hard to top any way you cut it!
matt-
i felt the same way when my daughter saw cinderella at disneyland! i cried! awesome feeling! happy bday to maddie and have fun in paris!
I love how incredibly hipster the Yo Gabba Gabba glasses are.
Liz’s parents sound like amazing people, it’s so great that they are welcoming of Brooke.
Awww, it’s wonderful that you were able to have so much fun together! And Paris – wow! Please get Maddy a Pain au Chocolate while you’re there – they’re delicious and I know she’ll love them!
i think you’re just amazing.
I think I tweeted you this week b/c I thought you were on a plane to Paris! Not sure if you have your schedule already, or if you need some Maddy-fied ideas of places in Paris? And as proffered previously, we (Le Mr & I) hold our word to buy you that promised round ‘o vin (wine
) if you’re up for a rendez-vous. If we don’t catch up with you, Bonne Voyage et Bonne Anniversaire to Maddy…no better place to celebrate!
Sounds fantastic! Your happiness is evident from your writing and your pictures – it’s contagious. I am sitting here grinning from ear to ear! So thrilled that you and Maddy have one another, Liz, your families, and now, Brooke.
It is so cool getting to witness a child see something that blows their mind. I had the privelage of sitting next to my friends 6 year old daughter at Mary Poppins when Mary flew for the first time and I teared up. I do thinking about it. She was truely amazed. Her mother and I weren’t even watching the play, just her watching the play. It was so cool.
Oh, FYI, Speaking of needing beer to get through a young people’s event, some day when your daughter gets into the boy band of the moment (probably as some form of rebellion would be my guess) and you have to take her to one of those concerts your ears will bleed. I have been to tons of heavy metal concerts, but nothing beat the noise at a Back Street Boys concert that I had to accompany my young cousins too. The upside, there is no line for beer. The average age is 15.
Her bangs look so much better! Promise never to touch them again!
Make sure you’re when you’re in Paris to take Maddy to the top of the Eifel Tower and take a picture of her in front of a Louis Vuitton store (Liz would’ve wanted this, she was a girl, trust me on this!).
I just love the picture of Maddy looking at you in those glasses.
Ah, Paris–enjoy! Happy Birthday to Maddy!!
What I mean is make sure when you’re in Paris. Epic fail. I swear, I must have switched off my brain’s on switch today.
Love the picture of you and Maddy reading…it is so cute and she is so intent on the book. Happy Birthday Maddy and have a great time in Paris!!!
You HAD to wear the hat…?
I used to be one of those horrible people that would glare at the parents of screaming children in public places until I had children myself. Then I realized that no matter how good of a parent you are, you just can’t control your children all the time. They are their own people with their own moods. Now I glare at people that glare at me and my kids, and ignore it when it happens to someone else. Ha. Hope you guys have fun in Paris. Brooke is lovely, by the way!
Wow Maddy has such long fingers, piano may be the instrument for her! Seems like you have a nice musical family which is great! Safe trip to Paris & Happy Birthday Maddy!
So glad you and your family and Awesome Maddy had fun at the concert! We had the best time ever and LOVED it! Too bad we couldn’t have met, it would have been great to finally “meet” you and your little girl.
After I saw your tweet saying you were there I looked down at the front row and saw someone in a ski hat and figured it was you. 
how fun!!
and…have you seen this website?
http://www.latfh.com
I’m waiting to see a pic of you on there.
we were also at the Target center for a night full of Yo Gabba Gabba crazy! LOL! Our 2 1/2 year old was in heaven! That was until he found out he couldn’t go touch Muno… such a crushing moment! LOL!
Maddie looks like she had a blast!
PARIS!!!! For her Birthday!?! AMAZING… PARIS! can’t wait to live vicariously through you guys on that trip.
One thing kept ringing to me when I read this entry , YOU SOUND HAPPY!
And Mady looks so happy and hilariously smitten with her life and the world around her.
Be proud. You deserve this
Great stuff all around. One of my very, very earliest memories is seeing Sesame Street Live with my dad. It was magic!!
Thrilled to see you looking so happy with Maddy, your family, and Brooke.
And … have an amazing time in Paris!! One of my favorite cities. Although I definitely didn’t make it there as early as my second birthday. Lucky Maddy!
Also, this is sooo random, but I honestly have no one else I can think to ask. My best friend and I are planning a trip to India for December … if you happen to have ANY advice on getting a ticket for less than $1,500 (if that’s even possible), I would really love to hear it, lol.
Can’t wait to see the pictures from your next international adventure! Keep doing what you’re doing with that gorgeous little lady!
Loving how absolutely amazing your in laws and your entire family are. It truly does take a village and you have one hell of an awesome village! And does Maddy know what “no high sticking” means? That made me laugh. Happy Birthday to your beautiful girl… the way she behaves in all of her videos is so similar to my own 18 month old daughter. This really is a great age… minus the tantrums. (Oh, and can I put in a request for you to come to Salt Lake City on your future book tour? My friends and I would LOVE to have you visit our city; we’d even buy you a 3.2 beer! Yes, there are some of us who drink in Utah.)
Yay for yo gabba gabba! Maddy looks SO happy in those photos!
And woohoo for Paris! Can’t wait for the updates from that awesome city.
Could of swore I saw Maddy on KARE11 Sunday night. Story about the weather with pics around the lakes…..anyone else see it?
great update! what amazing inlaws!!! and Wisconsin girls really are the best! Have an amazing time in Paris…. what a lucky little girl!
It’s not a Minnesota event without Wally. Man, I miss Minnesota!
I wish Yo Gabba Gabba would come to Denver. My 18 month old daughter LOVES them and I can only imagine she’d have the same response as Madeline!
Hey – that’s ME and my Ava (and Davez) right between your heads ! (2nd yabba pik with Mads looking at you like the rockin’ daddy you are! too funny!) That show WAS awesome. You’re right, watching her see that was the highlight of my days, I tell ya. Magical.
Have an amazing time in Paris – what a special thing to do with your daughter. I promised Ava I’d take her when she’s 16. And leave her there if she’s snotty to me.
ps – when I read Liz’s family showed up with Brooke, I burst into tears. Amazing family you have there.
I love to read what you write -in fact I’m addicted and can’t wait for Paris!
Bon Voyage
I would need soo much beer to get through a Yo Gabba Gabba concert. You are a better parent than I.
I’m sure they weren’t completely deaf, just a temporary threshold shift haha
I got a chuckle at how there were 6 adults and 1 child at the Yo Gabba Gabba.
I love Maddy in her hat, could she be any cuter?! Wish I could find a hat to make me look that cute. Have fun in Paris. Safe travels.
Your family rocks! I am so glad that Liz’s family is including Brooke. Glad Maddie had an awesome time at Yo Gabba Gabba. Have fun in Paris!
Hey Matt! Looks like a great time at Yo Gabba. If I hadn’t just taken my 2 year old to see Sesame Street Imagination, I would have been right there with you. I agree that watching your babe expierience that time is mesmorizing! She cried when it was over and I nearly did too.
Have fun in Paris…I will be out of town for Maddie’s Birthday, so I will make my donation today!
loved the yo gabba gabba updated. makes me wanna take my little gaia. i loved seeing all the adults having just as much fun as maddy. so glad to see you happy. love happy updates
You In-laws, your family, Maddy, Brooke and You are so amazing, what a big beautiful family you make. Have fun in Paris, and a Joyeux Anniversaire (Happy B-day) to Maddy. I can’t believe she will be 2 years old
man…yo gabba gabba live….my youngest bowen would flip over that..i wonder if they are coming to atlanta?! your inlaws rock…tell them i said that…and maddie is so precious i can hardly stand it!! glad ya’ll are having a good time in mn. is brooke going to paris with ya’ll? just wonderin’..much love and blessings~erin
I laughed so hard at the beer man and him coming back with beer! Too funny. Maddy is so beautiful and I love watching her grow. I hope she’s good for you on the plane ride to Paris. What an amazing birthday trip. Enjoy every second of that fabulous city!
I don’t know much about Yo Gabba Gabba, but I just leaned that DJ Lance used to work at Amoeba. Did you know him before he was a star Matt?
Have fun in Paris!!
I’m so jealous of the fact your in-laws are interested in Brooke. I am struggling with this as my husband’s family does not want to meet the new guy. They still cry at the thought of it…
We were there too! My daughter wasn’t quite as thrilled and only wanted to run up and down the concrete isles. Fun nonetheless
I can’t believe that we didn’t see you guys at the concert! Emma and I were there too (she thought that it was equally amazing) and we are in one of your pictures! We actually were sitting only a few rows in front of where Maddy was playing with the balloons during intermission, except Emma was playing in the isle. Anyway, glad to see everything is still going so well!
Every time I hear a screaming kid on an airplane, all I feel is an intense wave of relief that it isn’t my kid this time. So if any parents were around you on that plane, I’m sure they understood.
That picture of Maddie sitting in your lap, smiling at you in your DJ Lance glasses is awesome. My daughter was obsessed with Thomas the Tank Engine when she was 2, and we took her to see Thomas Live. I think the reaction is very similar to the one you described. It IS indeed pretty rad.
You have great in-laws, yes, but it would seem you’ve also done a wonderful job keeping them in your and Madeline’s lives as well.
Happy early birthday to Madeline!
Looks like Maddy’s bangs are growing back quite nicely and quickly! Yay!
This made me cry. She really looks SO happy. What a joy to see something magical thru her eyes. Awesome as can be!
Love the fact that you cried just a bit because of Maddy’s excitement and happiness at the show. A sign of a truly excellent parent Matt.
Thrilled that everyone met Brooke’s parents! You deserve to find happiness in love again. Can’t wait for Paris pics and updates. Have a great evening!!!
We were at Yo Gabba Gabba too! But Wally wasn’t in our section.
Matt – Your blog is so great. I really look forward to it. Can’t wait for your book. Perhaps you should charter your own plane to Paris though. Ha!
Oh, boy. We will be taking Bridget to Disney World for her first trip when she is almost exactly the same age, now I’m nervous!
Great update. Have a great trip to Paris!
When my son goes crazy on planes from exhaustion, putting him cheek to cheek and hugging/snuggling tight seems to calm us down. Hope Paris flights and travel are flawless.
Looking forward to pictures!
What concert did you and Brooke enjoy?
oh the 2 year old tantrum- I am becoming very familiar with this- when you’re home you can let it run it’s course but when in public- say in Target when your daughter decides to lay down in the middle of an aisle and scream bloody murder while people look at you with that mixture of pity and horror- all toddler parents fell your pain! Also Yo Gabba Gabba- wow I may have to look into it- that stuff is like crack from kids.
I kinda have to laugh at Yo Gabba Gabba…..really? Someone on acid came up with this concept, but our preschooler enjoys it and we sing the songs often.
Your in-laws are amazing people. They are doing so right by Liz for being so great to Brooke. Congrats to them. Many people should look to them as examples of making sure the man that married their daughter and essentially became their son and their granddaughter, are happy! Good for them!
Hi Matt..
I started your blog from the beginning and although it took me to weeks to read it I am finally finished… Whoo!!! I feel like I know you now…lol!!…I’m so glad you and Maddie are happy and you have found someone to share time with… Have a great time in Paris…Your new stranger/friend.
OK. Liz’s parent’s bringing Brooke to the airport really touched me. I cried. That’s so amazing. And then all of them coming to meet her family? Awesome. I wish all adults could act so…. adult in similar situations. There’s so much love there, what a blessing.
The DJ Lance glasses are awesome!
I’m so glad you had a great tip to the MN. Can’t wait to see/read about your trip to Paris!!
You and I have something in common. (Other than we each have the most beautiful daughter in the world.)
You’ll have to go read for yourself, about my daughter’s first “Holy crap, that character isn’t on my tv anymore!” moment. I hope you do go read!
http://thekissingbaby.blogspot.com/2009/12/sesame-fabulous.html
Looks like you guys had an awesome time at the show…my 2 year old would have gone nuts!!
I am so happy to see that you guys are so happy…you all deserve it…and what an amazing family and in-laws that you have to welcome Brooke in…she is lovely and you all look so happy!! 
Wow….PARIS for her second birthday…what a special little girl
I didn’t get there until I was in my 20′s….you guys will have a lot of fun…Liz will think that is a really neat place to clebrate her second birthday…as I know she will be right there with you all!!
BTW..her bangs are growing back nicely
Have a great trip…look forward to the photos and updates!!
well, Matt. I have been slowly digesting this blog, staring with the first page, since I first saw your nomination on the Bloggies site. I have carried you in my heart and in my prayers from day one. I’ve just caught up with you, present day, and thought it might be time to say hello.
You are the same age as my son, so I may be coming from a slightly different perspective than many of your
strangerfriends here. You write so beautifully, and your words have touched me deeply. Your posts have made me cry – I have been especially touched by the India photos of Maddy standing where her Mom once stood. Even more have made me grin. The gorgeous photos and video of your beautiful, irrepressible child have done this not-yet-a-grandmother’s heart good. The joy and wisdom and love that you give to Madeline is simply awesome.It is such a privilege to witness your journey. There are no words to thank you for sharing your heart, your daughter and your life with us. I won’t try. Just… thank you.
I think I would have handed Maddy straight to that stupid flight attendant. She clearly doesn’t have kids, or common sense for that matter.
So excited that Maddy got to see Yo Gabba Gabba live, my girls love it!
Awesome post, Matt-so great to see you guys having so much fun! Really looking forward to the photos from Paris. Safe travels!
i love this post…huhuhu tnx 4 approving my fb.. love to read more..tnx 4 the great story.. try to write up a book..”instant dad” huhu that great..take care…=)
Beer, brats and cheese? Or maybe even Kringle? Wisconsin’s finest, ya know? I had no idea that some people had never heard of some of these things!
So, I’ve seen very little of Yo Gabba….what does Maddy think of Biz? My husband and I were speechless when we saw his beat box segment on Utube…omg, the halloween one is INSANE!
p.s. Maddy’s bangs are already looking SO much better!
http://www.cnn.com/2010/TRAVEL/03/16/babies.crying.planes/index.html?hpt=Mid
You might enjoy this article
So enjoyed hearing about your visit with family,(all of them sound perfectly wonderful!) Matt, and can’t wait to see pics and hear stories from Paris!!!
That Yo Gabba Gabba show looked like a lot of fun. It looked like Maddy had a blast. I sure hope it comes to New England…my son LOVES Yo Gabba Gabba! Have a safe trip to Paris!
The amount of love all of you have for Maddy shines through in every photo. You have and are a wonderful family!
Ha! I totally saw myself in that picture of Brooke at Yo Gabba Gabba. Looks like your balloons held up better than ours (which met their demise later that night when my 3yo decided to sit on them, tears ensued).
Also, happy upcoming birthday Maddy! Have fun in Paris!
You all look so incredibly happy – I loved this post! We’re taking our 2 1/2 year old to Disney for the first time on the 27th of this month, and I am more excited now than before hearing you describe watching Maddy light up seeing Yo Gabba Gabba. I imagine that’s how my daughter will be when she sees Cinderella and Princess Jasmine. I think you have amazing in-laws and parents, and it sounds like Brooke’s family is the same. Have a great time in Paris! I love all the pics you put on Twitter – can’t wait to see Maddy in Paris!
It sounds like you’re having tons of fun, which is awesome! The pictures are great, of course!
This post made me smile. You all seem so happy! I remember when I took my son to his first little show and the look on his face was priceless. It’s so amazing to watch them see something like that for the first time! I hope you guys have a fun and safe trip to Paris!!
I know exactly what you mean when you said you “kinda cried” when Maddy got so excited…I do that shit all of the time!! So very sweet. Enjoy Paris with your little Birthday Girl!! Another memorable experience for the little traveler and yourself!
I am so happy you have someone special in your life. You deserve to be happy. It is amazing that your daughter has so much family who love and cherish her. It is great to see that mix of families and the love and acceptance they show for you. I t truly warms my heart. I am so jealous about Paris!!! AH! How great. Have a fab trip and be safe. Keep rocking.
I think Liz’s parents’ response to Brooke is tremendous. Of course, for them, the fear would be if you two eventually get married, they would lose time with their precious granddaughter who is the last living link with their precious daughter.
But, as I’ve said before, true love is an expanding thing. Everybody can have plenty of room to fit.
So I think their acceptance of your friend is just so indicative of the quality of people they are — and of the genes that are in your Maddy. I also think your willingness to be upfront with them and to know they are your in-laws for life, regardless of what happens next, is indicative of your mettle as a man.
Lucky Maddy!
Plus she is going to have many sets of grandparents! I’m jealous because mine are all gone.
Wow! Paris, that will be amazing. I was there for a long weekend a few years ago and loved it but never really got to see enough. Have a great time!
Madeline’s hair is looking so much better already, she’s going to love looking at those photos of her when she’s older though. (or maybe not)
Have a great trip.
Jade
Is it bad that I am slightly happy that your perfect traveler had a bit of a melt down? Only because that has been my experience with my daughter, and I was a tad jealous.
Sounds like you guys are having a great time! Enjoy.
I set up a monthly donation yesterday to LLF in honor of Maddy’s birthday, I am proud to be apart of such a wonderful foundation, and look forward to hearing about the families you guys are able to help.
Matt, I am so happy for you! It’s amazing that your family and in laws have open arms for Brooke and that everyone went over to meet Brooke’s family. That is truly pure unconditional love! I’m so happy for you and Maddy! That definitely makes life a lil easier. It looks like a fun tim by everyone at Yo Gabba Gabba. To see Maddy’s smile and eyes light up… priceless. Safe Travels to Paris and can’t wait to hear all about it and see the pictures. Happy 2nd Birthday Ms. Maddy and many, many, more! XO
I just can’t get past how amazingly lucky Maddy is. She is surrounded by so many wonderful people who adore her. What you said about your IL’s- they truly are people of true character and openness. I’m sure this is hard for them, but the fact that they are accepting of Brooke in your life – just so wonderful.
And really, the same can be said of your parents too. I have no question they loved Liz like a daughter.
Can’t wait to hear about Paris! And thanks for the tip about the iPod. We’re taking a flight soon adn I just e-mailed my husband and told him to download some stuff on to it to entertain our son.
i know the exact feeling you were having with maddie at the show. i cried the first time i took my oldest son to a live show…their excitement and energy is so amazing.
enjoy paris!
Don’t feel bad about the plane. I read on a gossip blog that Nicole Kidman had to walk the aisle for an entire flight with her screaming toddler daughter. It happens to everyone eventually.
I hope you’ll have an auction again sometime to raise money for the foundation. Congrats on the beginnings of blending a beautiful and ever metamorphosing family.
Sounds like a fun time!! It’s good to see you and Maddie doing so well. I’m jealous of the Paris trip; someday I’m going to make it back there. Have a wonderful birthday, Maddie. Enjoy Paris. I have a suggestion for while you are there: buy Maddie a fabulous hat. She looks great in them; she’s obviously going to be a great hat girl! Happy Birthday!!!
Say hi to paris! Have you ever been. I love the idea of getting a photo of Maddy in front of a Louis Vuitton store.
Hope you show her the Mona Lisa. Is Brooke coming too?
I totally know that feeling you get as a parent when your child is so freaking excited about something! I got that with my girls when they went to see Bear in the Big Blue House (several years ago…) and with my son when we took him to see the Wiggles. Seriously…you get all choked up and teary-eyed. Awesome!
Is Brooke heading to Paris with you guys? That will be a great trip!!!
long time reader, but never commented. my just about two year old son and I were also at the Yo Gabba Gabba show at the Target Center, and we enjoyed the hell out of it. I think its awesome how much Maddy gets to do, the travelling and site-seeing, but then also the little kid stuff.
what an amazing amazing family you have – on both sides. its incredible the love and maturity they show, even though it is probably hard on some levels.
and YOU ALL LOOK SOOOO HAPPY. awesome.
have a blast in Paris! I hope Brooke gets to come with you guys!
It sounds like a great trip despite the rough part on the plane. I’m so glad your family and in-laws are so accepting and welcoming of Brooke.
Oh, she is turning into a beautiful toddler! Been away for awhile, taking care of my folks in Georgia. The pics and description make me miss my grandchildren so. have a wonderful trip on Friday,I know it will be bittersweet.
Matt, you are an incredible person…father..and you deserve all the happiness….I am so happy for you and Brooke…it makes me smile…and cry when I read your posts.
hugs from one of your stalkers!! =}
Can you believe how many dogs are in the SkyMall though? Seriously. It’s like they knew parents needed to point out all the doggies.
I totally just burst into tears reading about how YOU cried at the show because I know exactly what you are talking about. My husband and I laugh all the time about getting choked up at kids shows and other events we know our daughter is going to love. As the music soars and we wait for the characters to emerge, we always sit there like idiots choking back tears
The Goodmans are just the best. no better words can describe. This world needs many Grandmas and Grandpas like them. They are truly special people.
so very happy for you all. safe and happy travels to paris!
-L
I teared up a little, smiled & laughed. So happy you and Brooke have so much support, and it is so deserved. I know you’d only feel empathy for a fellow parent if the roles were reversed so don’t be feeling bad. It is a blip in their lives and they just need to be sucking it up
Matt, my husband is from Italy and we’ve flown with our daughter now three times since she was born (she’s now 2 and 3 months). The first trip was easy–she slept the entire trip of 3 flights. The second trip was pretty bad and the last one last September was horrible. She cried the entire 8 hours from Newark to Rome and there was this guy who kept “shushing” her the entire time. My husband said the guy was lucky he couldn’t see who it was or he was going to punch him. It is the most awful feeling–you feel so badly for everyone around you. I really didn’t know how I was going to survive that flight but somehow we all did. We’re planning to go again in September and she’ll be almost three so I’m hoping it’s going to get easier! Anyway, I give you so much credit for all that you do. What an amazing father.
My daughter doesn’t have grandparents on my side and the ones on my husband’s side are… I’ll just leave it there. I’m so glad that Maddy has incredible grandparents in her life. This post really shows how much they love you guys. Truly good people. Have a great trip and I can’t wait to see pictures.
So glad that your entire family loves Brooke as much as you do! And from those pics and videos, I can tell Maddie loves Brooke, too!
Glad you all had a blast!
I would have been Pissed Off at the fight attendant!!! Although she probably had no idea and was just doing her job
But I have been there and it is so hard and stressful!! (and sweaty)
Yo Gabba Gabba looked Awesome!! Can’t wait until it comes to Philly!! What a great moment had watching Maddy’s face light up, so sweet!!
I am so happy that you have such an understanding and supportive family!! Your in laws must think of you like a son and in the end would love to see you Happy!!!
great post!!
That girl of yours looks GREAT in hats…She must get to the Kentucky Derby someday!!!
Glad you are having a nice vacation…enjoy Paris
What a wonderful post. You deserve the fun!
My son screamed and kicked on plane rides. I can totally relate on that! I also remember the look of pure joy on his face when he saw the Barney show live. Memories to never forget. Enjoy your trip to Paris!
Does Brooke blog? Because I think I love her.
Asalamu Alaykom,
What a blessing to have the good times! Keep enjoying life in small, steady increments and you will have built yourself a new world.
I hate to tell you Matt, but Maddy is becoming very spoiled. You’ve got to discipline her. I know it’s hard and you don’t want to be a bad guy, but it will only get worse.
How wonderful it is that Liz’s family is so accepting of Brooke! They are clearly wonderful people and the joy in everyone’s eyes watching Maddy at Yo Gabba Gabba is awesome. Have a wonderful and safe trip to Paris. I can’t wait to read the stories and see the pictures. As always, much love to you and your best girl and now Brooke!
@madeline
whatttt?!? how is maddy spoiled?!
Wow…..
I will say I NEVER really read your comments. But I came back to see if my picture has change bc I change it with my profile. (it hasn’t) Then I read your last comment from “Madeline”.
Is that a joke? Its gotta be a joke???
Please do not think Maddy is spoiled!!(which you probably don’t)
I have to say from the little bit we get to read and see she is NOT spoiled!!! She is cute as a button and full of energy and life!!
I have 3 kids (9, 3 and 19 months) and I have been through plenty of fits and its not bc they are spoiled?? It is bc they are KIDS!!! (hello)
Im sure you discipline her as much as you should and you are doing a great job!!
Gezzz Seriously Madeline??
Matt
As a loyal blog follower, this quote reminded me of you:
“The heart breaks and breaks and lives by breaking. It is necessary to go through dark and deeper dark and not to turn.”
Stanley Kunitz from “The Testing Tree”
http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/the-testing-tree
Keep living and loving.
“Madeline” obviously has no kids of her own! Ignore that comment.
Maddy is a typical toddler and a cute one at that!
“Madeline” actually has 4 kids and can spot an undiscipline child a mile away. You’ve got to nip it in the bud. She has also flown overseas with multiple children.
I want to add that I don’t mean to sounds as heartless as you may think.
When your child has been hurt in some way, it’s natural to want to overcompensate to ease their pain. When my 3rd daughter had a seizure at 18 months, she turned blue and I thought she had died in my arms as I was on the phone with 911. The paramedics arrived just as she took a breath and came back to me. For the next 2 years, every time I closed my eyes, I saw her lifeless, blue face. Therefore, everything she did from then on was magical and it was difficult to disciple her for a while. I kept thinking that I almost lost her so I can’t be mean to her.
Bonjour Matt —
When you tire of the Tour Eiffel, the Champs Elysees, eating croissants and brioche, searching for music at the FNAC, etc…There is a store in Paris with the most amazing kids clothing — it would be perfect for your little birthday girl fashionista, Maddy. It’s called Du Pareil au Meme (or D’PAM for short) http://www.dpam.com — they have several branches all over Paris, and their prices are quite reasonable. If you get a chance, check them out — it’s worth a trip!
Bon Voyage and Bonne Anniversaire to Madeline!
Matt, I love to read your blog. Madeline is amazing and beautiful and so very loved obviously. Thank you for sharing your joy with us.
Hey, I’ve been woken up on a plane before, it is pure torture. I would have done exactly what Maddie did if I was almost 2. I nearly did at significantly older!!
hahahaha
speaking of that, i think my parent have problem traveling with me too
ah, poor them
I must say good post , a nice story.And I love paris part
Atleast you tried to console her on the plane! I once had a horrendous flight from Singapore to Dubai and there was a 5 year old who screamed for the entire flight. His parents didn’t want to quieten him, because they didn’t want to stifle his freedom of expression. Theird words, not mine.
And I’m sorry Matt, but everytime I see her bangs I have a little giggle at the story of you cutting them
Why is it OK for kids to totally act up on a plane these days? A two year old is old enough to be disciplined instead of placated. Super Nanny does it all the time and I applaud her. It’s a nightmare for everyone else on the plane to deal with a crying child. There’s nothing wrong with discipline and those of that say “sh” are not the problem. It’s overindulgent parents.
Wally the Beerman! What was he doing at the Target Center? I only ever remember him being at the Dome. My dad used to walk halfway around the building to go get me a Wally the Beerman baseball card every year. Fun memories!
Maddy is gorgeous, and I enjoy checking your website from time to time. You are doing more than the “best that you can”, it seems you are raising a wonderful young lady.
Try a cheese curd! That is pure Wisconsin goodness and I’m saddened by all the non-wiscosinites that don’t get to enjoy the cheesy goodness. Top it off with a New Glarus Spotted Cow and a double brat!!
Amen Super Nanny!
Shame on the flight attendant for waking you and Maddy up…and shame on the people saying that Maddy is spoiled or that you’re over-indulgent. Anyone who has ever raised at least ONE toddler knows that they can throw inconsolable fits, often at very inconvenient and embarrassing moments. Quite frankly, I’d rather have a child who has a little spunk and spirit in her, than a timid robotic child who is so afraid to express his or her feelings that they become unfeeling. I have four kids….2 of them were laid-back, 2 of them may have reacted the same way Maddy did in that situation and at that age. I raised them all the same way, with the same amount of love, rules, etc…
Interestingly, Super Nanny Jo Frost is not married and has NO children. I can only have respect for, and take the advice of parents who have been there/done that with their OWN children that they raise 24/7.
Stepping off my soap box now to say that I’m glad you had a nice trip and that Maddy liked the Yo Gabba Gabba show!!! Have a fabulous trip to Paris, and maybe give the flight attendant instructions to NOT wake you.
I swear by stickers. Just bring 5000 stickers on the place, let her decorate EVERYTHING, keeps my 2 year old busy for a good 3 hours! Love the Gabba Gabba pics!
Paris! For her 2nd birthday! How lucky! I’m taking my kid to the park for her 2nd. She thinks that’s the bees knees. Shhh, please don’t tell her about Paris! haha.
I do believe her bangs are growing out just fine!
So much fun! Just my intuition (could be totally off on this one), but it seems like you might be a little more hesitant to express yourself given maybe…the negative feedback about Brooke earlier this month. I really hope you have let all of that roll right off your back b/c I love reading your blog and wish you & Brooke and Maddie nothing but the best, happiest life! Enjoy your trip to Paris! I am sure Liz is smiling so friggin’ big in heaven right seeing all the amazing choices you have made with her gorgeous daughter! Cheers!
Hey Matt,
It’s Marlene from North Carolina. Your blog always helps me feel better and gives me hope that I will someday be out of the pain I am in. Everyone thinks I should be better by now. Not to mention I had my first experience of being screwed by a plumber this weekend. I was over charged $900.00! Thank God my parents helped me. They live 500 miles away and knew I was being screwed. Oh well, I hope I get a scholarship to attend the widows weekend in August.
Marlene
Happy birthday to Miss. Madeline tomorrow… and I will be thinking of you, Matt, because I know that it also marks another anniversary, and your heart must be heavy with sorrow… It doesn’t matter how much time goes by – your heart will always ache, I know…. But what a wonderful daddy you are and I know Liz must be proud of you, wherever she is… looking down on you, and her little girl.
Happy Birthday, Maddie! Eat a beignet or crepe or something equally French for me while you are in Paris!
Hey Matt, I thought this website might make you happy, I wasn’t sure what your current email is, but it’s for your Polaroid camera: http://www.the-impossible-project.com/
That reminds me of the time that I sent my 18 month old on a plane with my 19 yr old brother….God bless the flight attendant who ended up baby sitting after my brother handed the kid over because “I think she shit herself and I’m going to vomit” He is such a puss.
Oh also–one year I took the PIT on a secret girls day. The plan was to go see Nemo on ice. We took the bus and we got to oh idk the dome when I realized the show was at the Target Center and we were on the bus to Xcel…awesome job mom…way to check the tickets BEFORE you’re almost to STP!
But on the way there the PIT kept guessing where we were going….”Are we going to Barbie?” ME: “Nope” PIT: “Ummmmmmmmm are we going to see LED ZEPPELIN?!” I had to wipe a tear I was so proud
Damn, Brooke even looks cute in those glasses…You, on the other hand….
Oh, yeah, the plane…the last flight we were on, my two-year-old woke up in the night the night before and wouldn’t go back to sleep. Think she slept on the plane? No way…for THREE HOURS she screamed almost non-stop. Nothing would console her and she did not want to stay in her seat. I had to sit and hold the end of the seat belt to keep here there while the fasten seat belt sign was lit. All the people around us and flight attendants made comments, especially when we left the plane, like, “oh, there’s the screamer!” and “wow! she’s still going?”
My heart broke when we finally got home (we were gone a month) and she was so overjoyed to see her house,
Mama! my house? my house? MY HOUSE, MAMA!” and
“my room? my room? my bed? MAMA! MY BED!”
and slept 13 hours a night for a week.
There wasn’t anything I could do for her except just survive the trip. And we did.
Looks like a great time was had by all…thanks for sharing!
tomorrow we can share celebrating a birthday of a beloved girl- my little Chime shares her birthday with Madeline..
I hope she has the best day Matt-
fit for the head strong princess that she surely is..
and I will think about you a lot the day that follows..I am sure i will think back to the first day i *met* you online here and the flood of emotions you brought into my world.. most of which I am profoundly grateful for.
Liz has made her mark on this world.. not only by giving us such a special little clone, but by inspiring selflessness and reminding people that there are people who can lift the spirits of those around them with just a smile- and who’s impact is so grate that her memory has invoked a movement of giving and kindness that will bring some light into lives darkened in a way no lives should be.
I am glad you have a hand to hold Matt, and a family that can stand by your side..
remember that far and wide you have a family here- and I have faith I am not alone in believing that any and all of us would stand up without question to be by your side..and that in spirit you have a small army at the ready- offering what I hope is unconditional love and support.
Happy Birthday, Sweet girl!
Joyeux anniversaire, Maddy! (I do hope that child gets to pig out on a pain au chocolat at some point for her birthday.)
Happy Birthday Maddy!!!
Happy birthday maddie!
it’s been a while i haven’t been in this blog..
then this morning the two just popped up in my head..
“how are they?”
then i saw its Madeline’s birthday..
dont want to miss this opportunity to great her..
More love from here in San Diego Maddie.. happy BirthDay!
Matt, as always keep it up! you’re doing a good job..
Happy late birthday to Madeline! What a lucky little girl. My daughter turns five today and we will sadly not be going to Paris
I know she would love an ipod though. Could you tell me what kind Madeline has please? Thanks. I can’t wait to hear about your trip!
Happy Birthday Dear Princess Madeline!!! I haven’t been on here for a while and it’s so strange that I picked today to come on and here is all this wonderful news about your 2nd b-day!!! What a BEAUTIFUL little Lady you have become!! You are one lucky little girl to have such a SPECIAL Daddy who loves and takes such good care of you!! What a WONDERFUL life you are having even with the absence of your Mommy (She’s watching you!!!!!) So good to hear you’re so Happy and Healthy!!! I hope the Lord keeps BLESSING you and your Daddy!!! Take care and once again Happy Birthday Sweet Little Girl:)
Please tell Madeline that when a flight attendant wakes me up on a flight to ask if I want a drink – I cry and scream a lot, also. And I’m 59 years old. I totally understand.
I was on a flight from LAX to JFK last week, and there was a woman with a 5ish year old and a 2ish year old. The younger of the two kids started crying before we even took off and kep crying on and off throughout the flight. I instantly thought of you and realized that I didn’t know what this woman’s story was and felt really bad for the fact that she was flying solo with two kids, obviously doing her best to keep them quiet. When I normally would have glared at her and rolled my eyes with the other passengers, I looked at her, and when she looked at me and mouthed “I’m so sorry” I told her “No worries. You’re doing your best and you’re doing a great job.” Your story has made me more understanding of others. You just never know what someone is going through in life.
So cute! Pictures are great!